A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Oahu for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Oahu, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a bustling, fun-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife and beaches.

Oahu

Oahu is a energetic, vibrant, and cosmopolitan island. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Virginia Beach and Oahu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oahu than Virginia Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oahu is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, vibrant energy, and world class water sports (including surfing). Also, Oahu is famous for Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Virginia Beach is well known for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Oahu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oahu and Virginia Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Oahu is great for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Oahu can be an interesting and educational experience. The USS Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor is a moving and special place to visit, but tickets should be purchased in advance. Other landmarks around the island include the Tour Iolani Palace and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Oahu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Oahu has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Honolulu has a diversity of cuisines and a cosmopolitan vibe, giving it some of the best food in the Hawaiian Islands. The local restaurants are influenced by a number of countries and often incorporate Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Portuguese flavors. Dishes are often saucy, sweet, and starchy, but you'll also find fresh tropical fruits such as mango and coconut.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Nightlife?

Oahu is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Oahu for the nightlife scene. Honolulu, and Oahu, have some of the best nightlife in the Hawaiian islands. There are tiki bars and posh nightclubs that keep buzzing late into the night. Head to Waikiki for some of the island's best nightlife. In Honolulu you'll find some local bars and clubs, but many resorts also offer a great nightlife scene and a fun atmosphere that caters specifically to tourists.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Music?

Oahu is adequate for its live music scene. However, Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

While it's not known for it's music scene, Oahu has some options for casual listeners. There are a few good venues that offer live music on Oahu.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Resorts?

Oahu is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Oahu is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island has a diversity of resorts, from luxury 5 star accommodation to family-friendly resorts that are fun for all ages. Ko Olina is where you'll find Aulani, the Disney Resort. Waikiki is one of the most famous tourist areas on the island and you'll find high rise hotels and condos along the beach.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oahu is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Oahu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Snorkeling and diving on the island is among the best in the world. There are 3 marine life conservation parks and miles of coastline to explore.

Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Beaches?

Oahu is terrific for the beache. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the beach.

The beaches in Oahu are among the best in the world. From the energetic Waikiki Beach to the family-friendly Ko Olina, Oahu has some of the most famous beaches in the world. The beaches are lined with sand and some areas offer better swimming conditions than others. You'll also find beaches with snorkeling or sea turtles, and some with world class surfing waves.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Virginia Beach. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Hiking?

Oahu is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Oahu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. World famous hikes on the island include Diamond Head and Koko Crater Railroad Trailhead. There are hikes ranging from easy to challenging and views that will take your breath away.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Oahu is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Oahu is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping centers and malls in Honolulu that have major department stores as well as island favorites. For a local experience head to the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet or wander along the Waikiki Beach Walk with its many boutique shops. Also worth a visit is the Honolulu Chinatown market.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Families?

Oahu is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Oahu is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities, places to learn about Hawaiian culture, and world class beaches. The most popular family-friendly area is Ko Olina, which is where you'll find the Disney Resort, Aulani. Kids will also enjoy the area's snorkeling and kayaking. Surfing lessons are a fun activity for the whole family as well.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Couples?

Oahu is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Oahu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The island offers a beautiful and adventurous honeymoon destination that is perfect for anniversaries and other romantic getaways. It's an island paradise with world class beaches, stunning vistas, and countless water sports.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oahu is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Oahu. There are a couple of hostels on the island. Public transportation is also a bit better than the other islands, so it is one of the better Hawaiian islands for backpackers.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Students?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Oahu is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Virginia Beach. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Oahu is not popular with students.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oahu is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Oahu. Honolulu has a fairly good bus system, but once you're out of the city, public transportation is limited.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Oahu a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach and Oahu are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Virginia Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

Oahu is generally not very walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods in Honolulu, but if you really want to explore the island, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Oahu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oahu or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Both Virginia Beach and Oahu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Oahu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Oahu than Virginia Beach. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Oahu.

Families should spend more time in Oahu than Virginia Beach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Oahu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Oahu than Virginia Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oahu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oahu than Virginia Beach if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Oahu.

One day in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Virginia Beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Oahu, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Virginia Beach is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Oahu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Virginia Beach. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oahu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing coastal city of Virginia Beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Oahu, you'll find shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Virginia Beach and Oahu, we can see that Oahu is more expensive. And not only is Virginia Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Virginia Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Virginia Beach and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Oahu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oahu than you might in Virginia Beach.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Virginia Beach Expensive? and Is Oahu Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Virginia Beach or Oahu?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Oahu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Oahu. The summer months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oahu this time of year.

Virginia Beach is around the same temperature as Oahu in the summer. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Oahu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oahu this time of the year. In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during summer. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Virginia Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Oahu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Oahu. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Oahu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Virginia Beach is much colder than Oahu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Virginia Beach in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Oahu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oahu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Virginia Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in October than Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Oahu in the Winter?

Both Oahu and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Oahu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Virginia Beach. In January, Virginia Beach is generally much colder than Oahu. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 39°F (4°C), and Oahu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Oahu. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than Oahu during winter. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Oahu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Oahu in the Spring?

Both Oahu and Virginia Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Oahu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Virginia Beach is much colder than Oahu in the spring. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Oahu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Oahu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the spring, Virginia Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oahu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in April than Oahu. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Oahu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oahu and Virginia Beach